ROC President Ma Ying-jeou touted Taiwan’s role as a peacemaker and provider of humanitarian aid to the global community Dec. 27, vowing to step up efforts to assist Southeast Asian nations with disaster prevention.

“Taiwan was the first country to respond to the Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan struck Nov. 7,” Ma said at a reception to thank agencies, local charity groups and nongovernmental organizations for their contribution to disaster relief.

“The efforts of both public and private sectors underscore Taiwan’s capability and commitment to charitable action, making the country an inspiring and respected member of the global community,” he added.

Organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event attracted more than 100 foreign dignitaries, officials and representatives from local firms and NGOs. These included MOFA Minister David. Y. L. Lin and Carlos Aquino, deputy representative of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei.

Ma said the government has provided more than US$12 million in relief to the Philippines so far. This includes US$200,000 donated Nov. 10 and nearly 150 tons of supplies delivered in 18 flights by ROC air force C-130 Hercules cargo planes, as well as 530 tons of goods shipped by a navy vessel.

According to the president, Taiwan is subject to frequent earthquakes as well as typhoons, giving the nation plentiful experience in natural disaster prevention.

Since Ma took office in 2008, Taiwan has provided disaster relief to Haiti, Japan, New Zealand and mainland China. “I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to local NGOs for their swift and efficient action in assisting the government,” he said.

Given Taiwan’s proven track record, “we are more than happy to share our experience with neighboring countries in fighting calamities brought about by climate change,” Ma said.

In particular, Taiwan has participated in several disaster prevention activities with the U.S. Pacific Command and State of Hawaii in the past few years.

“The government plans to develop a disaster prevention and management center operated by the National Fire Agency in Nantou County into a training facility for the Southeast Asian region,” he added.

Echoing Ma’s remarks, MOFA Minister David Y. L. Lin commended the Ministry of National Defense and NGOs for mobilizing resources and delivering relief to the Philippines in such short order.

“As a result of the successful joint effort, we were able to extend our compassion to the people of the Philippines. This also represents an excellent example of public-private sector collaboration,” Lin added. (SFC-SDH)